One quote Joanne Cooke liked from former first lady Barbara Bush was a fairly recent one.

"My favorite Barbara Bush story is her recent response to a question regarding to what she would attribute her long, relatively healthy life," said Cooke, a Galestown town commissioner in Dorchester County. "Rather than spin a self-congratulatory story, as many of her age and position might be tempted to do, she spoke the simple truth: “good medical attention.'

"That spoke volumes," she said.

Across Delmarva, residents and public officials spoke highly of the former first lady, who championed literacy while her husband, George H.W. Bush, was in office. Barbara Bush died Tuesday evening at age 92.

While she was out of the White House for more than 25 years, her stature and class as wife and mother of two presidents resonated with many people.

"Mrs. Bush leaves behind a legacy of public service, and the American people will be forever thankful for her commitment to children's literacy, helping others, and above all, her family," said U.S. Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md.-1st.

Kathleen Mommé, president and CEO, United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore, said the former first lady was a good role model.

"Barbara Bush was the personification of grace and what it means to Live United: to give, to advocate and to volunteer," she said. "Her focus on literacy, faith and family inspired generations and her impact will live on forever."

Bunky Luffman agreed.

"Barbara Bush was an inspirational heroine, showing the importance of a life that embraces grace, dignity, intellect, compassion, and spiritual devotion," said the Delmar resident who works in Gov. Larry Hogan's administration.

Lifetime Republican Richie Lawrence of Salisbury found Bush's demeanor to her liking. Bush was know for not holding back with her opinions.

"Barbara Bush was one of the classiest women of our time," she said. "I watched her once on TV reprimand someone with a smile on her face and steel in her eyes. She had such grace. She was, as others are now saying, everyone's grandmother. And I loved her pearls!"

Gov. Hogan asked Marylanders to keep the Barbara Bush in their prayers on Sunday when it was announced she was in poor health.

Tuesday evening, Hogan remarked on her legacy.

"She lived a life of service to her country and her family, and will undoubtedly be remembered as a national role model and a truly great American," he tweeted. "Her dignity and trademark candor will live on as part of her legacy and will not soon be forgotten."